San Antonio Aggravated DWI Lawyer

Defending Against Aggravated DWI Charges in Texas

When facing charges of aggravated DWI in San Antonio, you need legal representation skilled and experienced in navigating the intricacies of Texas law. The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen stand as a pillar of support in your time of need. Our team is here to provide you with unwavering advocacy and strategic defense against aggravated DWI charges. We are committed to safeguarding your rights and working tirelessly to secure the best possible result for your case.

Call The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen today at (210) 405-9730 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our aggravated DWI attorney in San Antonio.

What is an Aggravated DWI?

An aggravated DWI is a serious offense that occurs when an individual is found to be operating a motor vehicle while holding a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) that exceeds the legal limit while also possessing specific factors that elevate the severity of the charge. These factors, often called "aggravating factors," can include prior DWI convictions, driving with a child passenger under 15 years old, causing serious bodily injury or death due to drunk driving, and more. An aggravated DWI reflects a situation where the alleged offense is compounded by one or more additional circumstances, resulting in enhanced legal consequences.

What Are My Rights After an Aggravated DWI Charge in San Antonio? 

Facing an aggravated DWI charge can be overwhelming, but it’s crucial to understand your rights and the legal options available to you. At The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen, we believe that knowledge is power. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to guiding you through the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that you are fully informed and prepared to make the best decisions for your case.

Here are some key rights you should be aware of:

• Right to Remain Silent: You are not obligated to answer questions from law enforcement without legal representation.
• Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to consult with an attorney before speaking to police or making any statements.
• Right to a Fair Trial: You are entitled to a fair trial, where evidence against you must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Right to Challenge Evidence: You can contest any evidence that was improperly obtained or is inadmissible in court.

Our team is here to help you assert these rights and build a robust defense strategy tailored to your unique situation. Whether you are facing your first offense or have prior convictions, we are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. 

What are the Penalties for an Aggravated DWI in Texas?

The penalties for an aggravated DWI conviction in Texas are significantly more severe than those for a standard DWI offense. 

If you are found guilty of aggravated DWI, you could face:

• Hefty Fines: Aggravated DWI convictions often lead to substantial fines, which vary based on the specific circumstances of your case.
• Driver's License Suspension: Your driver's license could be suspended, limiting your ability to commute and impacting your daily life.
• Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device: The court could mandate you to install an ignition interlock device in your motor vehicle; this requires you to pass a breathalyzer test before starting your car.
• Probation: Probation terms will likely be stricter for aggravated DWI convictions, imposing additional limitations on your activities and requiring regular check-ins.
• Jail Time: Aggravated DWI convictions can lead to mandatory jail sentences, ranging from several days to several years, depending on the specifics of your case.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction can result in a permanent stain on your criminal record, affecting your reputation, job prospects, and future opportunities.
• Increased Insurance Rates: Insurance companies may raise your rates or even drop your coverage altogether due to an aggravated DWI conviction.

Impact of Aggravated DWI on Your Record in Texas

You can face severe consequences if you are convicted of aggravated DWI in Texas, beyond the immediate penalties you will receive. 

The impact on your record may include:

• Criminal Record: An aggravated DWI conviction becomes a permanent part of your criminal record, affecting background checks for employment, housing, and various applications.
• Employment Opportunities: Numerous employers perform comprehensive background screenings, and a DWI conviction, especially an aggravated offense, could endanger employment opportunities, especially in positions that entail driving or involve significant responsibilities.
• Professional Licenses: Certain professions require professional licenses, and a DWI conviction can lead to the suspension or revocation of these licenses, affecting careers in fields such as law, healthcare, or transportation.
• Insurance Rates: Insurance companies often view DWI convictions as high-risk behavior, leading to increased premiums or even difficulty securing coverage.
• Security Clearances: Individuals working in government or positions that require security clearances may face challenges or disqualification due to an aggravated DWI conviction in San Antonio.
• Educational Opportunities: Admissions to educational institutions may be impacted, and existing students might face disciplinary actions or loss of scholarships.

Given these consequences, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced San Antonio aggravated DWI attorney promptly when facing these charges to explore defense strategies and minimize the potential impact on your record.